Mother of the Bride & Groom Dress Guide: Finding the Perfect Look for Your Special Day

The mothers of the bride and groom play such important roles in your wedding celebration. They deserve to look and feel absolutely beautiful on your special day. This guide will help you navigate the process of choosing the perfect dresses for the moms in your wedding party.

The Role of Mothers in Your Wedding

Mother of the Bride

Traditionally, the mother of the bride has a special role in wedding planning and the ceremony itself. She often:

• Helps with wedding planning decisions
• Hosts or co-hosts the bridal shower
• Walks down the aisle before the bridal party
• Sits in the front row during the ceremony
• Participates in the mother-son dance at the reception

Mother of the Groom

The mother of the groom also has important responsibilities:

• May host the rehearsal dinner
• Walks down the aisle with the groom’s father or escort
• Sits in the front row during the ceremony
• Participates in the mother-son dance

When to Start Shopping for Mother Dresses

Timeline

• 6-8 months before the wedding: Start browsing styles and colors
• 4-6 months before: Schedule shopping appointments
• 3-4 months before: Order dresses (many mother dresses are made-to-order)
• 2-3 months before: First fittings
• 1 month before: Final fittings and alterations

Coordination Tips

• Shop together: If possible, have both mothers shop together to ensure coordination
• Include the bride: The bride should have input on the overall look
• Consider the bridesmaids: Mother dresses should complement but not match bridesmaid dresses

Choosing the Perfect Color

Popular Mother Dress Colors

• Navy Blue: Classic, sophisticated, and universally flattering
• Burgundy: Rich and elegant, perfect for fall/winter weddings
• Sage Green: Soft and natural, great for spring/summer
• Blush Pink: Romantic and feminine
• Champagne: Neutral and elegant
• Dusty Blue: Modern and sophisticated

Color Coordination Guidelines

• Complement, don’t match: Mother dresses should complement the bridesmaid dresses but not be the same color
• Consider the wedding palette: Choose colors that work with your overall wedding color scheme
• Think about photos: Colors should look good together in wedding photos
• Season and venue: Consider the time of year and wedding location

Dress Style Considerations

Flattering Silhouettes for Mothers

• A-Line: Universally flattering, comfortable, and elegant
• Empire Waist: Great for hiding the midsection and creating a longer line
• Sheath: Sophisticated and modern, perfect for formal weddings
• Fit-and-Flare: Feminine and flattering for many body types

Neckline Options

• V-Neck: Classic and flattering for most body types
• Scoop Neck: Soft and feminine
• Halter: Great for showing off shoulders and arms
• One-Shoulder: Modern and sophisticated
• High Neck: Elegant and modest

Sleeve Options

• Cap Sleeves: Minimal coverage, great for warm weather
• Short Sleeves: Comfortable and appropriate for most venues
• Three-Quarter Sleeves: Elegant and flattering
• Long Sleeves: Perfect for winter weddings or formal ceremonies
• Sleeveless: Modern and versatile

Fabric and Comfort Considerations

Popular Fabrics for Mother Dresses

• Chiffon: Lightweight and flowy, perfect for warm weather
• Crepe: Sophisticated and wrinkle-resistant
• Lace: Elegant and feminine
• Satin: Luxurious and formal
• Jersey: Comfortable and stretchy

Comfort Factors

• Movement: Make sure the dress allows for comfortable movement
• Breathability: Consider the weather and venue
• Sitting: The dress should be comfortable for sitting during the ceremony
• Dancing: Ensure the dress works for the reception festivities

Budget Considerations

Average Costs

• Mother dresses: $200-$800
• Alterations: $50-$200
• Accessories: $100-$300
• Shoes: $50-$200

Cost-Saving Tips

1. Shop sales: Many bridal stores have seasonal sales
2. Consider department stores: Often have good selections at lower prices
3. Look for versatile dresses: Choose styles that can be worn again
4. Share accessories: Mothers can share jewelry or other accessories

Shopping Tips for Mothers

Before the Appointment

• Research styles: Look at magazines and websites to get ideas
• Consider your lifestyle: Choose a dress that fits your personal style
• Think about reusability: Select a dress you might wear again
• Bring proper undergarments: Wear the type of undergarments you’ll wear on the wedding day

During the Appointment

• Try different styles: Don’t limit yourself to what you think you want
• Consider the venue: Think about how the dress will work in your wedding setting
• Move around: Walk, sit, and dance in the dress to test comfort
• Take photos: Help you remember what you tried on

What to Bring

• Proper undergarments: Wear or bring what you plan to wear
• Shoes: Bring shoes with a similar heel height
• Jewelry: If you have specific jewelry in mind
• Photos: Bring inspiration photos or photos of the bridesmaid dresses

Accessorizing Mother Dresses

Jewelry

• Keep it elegant: Choose sophisticated pieces that complement the dress
• Consider the neckline: Select jewelry that works with the dress design
• Coordinate metals: Decide on gold, silver, or rose gold
• Don’t overdo it: Let the dress be the focus

Shoes

• Comfort is key: You’ll be wearing them for hours
• Consider the venue: Think about grass, sand, or uneven surfaces
• Coordinate with the dress: Choose colors that complement the dress
• Break them in: Wear the shoes around the house before the wedding

Wraps and Jackets

• Weather considerations: Have a wrap or jacket for cooler weather
• Venue appropriateness: Some venues require covered shoulders
• Style coordination: Choose wraps that complement the dress
• Comfort: Make sure the wrap doesn’t restrict movement

Special Considerations

Different Body Types

• Plus-size mothers: Look for designers that offer extended sizing
• Petite mothers: Consider alterations for proper fit
• Tall mothers: Look for dresses with appropriate length options
• Athletic builds: Choose styles that complement your figure

Age-Appropriate Styles

• Classic elegance: Choose timeless styles that won’t look dated
• Modern touches: Add contemporary elements while maintaining sophistication
• Personal style: Don’t feel limited by age - choose what makes you feel beautiful
• Comfort: Prioritize comfort and confidence over trends

Cultural Considerations

• Religious requirements: Some ceremonies have specific dress requirements
• Cultural traditions: Consider any cultural dress expectations
• Family preferences: Respect family traditions and preferences
• Modesty concerns: Choose styles that align with personal comfort levels

Coordinating Multiple Mothers

When Both Mothers Are Shopping

• Shop together: If possible, have both mothers shop together
• Coordinate colors: Choose complementary colors that work together
• Consider different styles: Each mother can choose a style that flatters her best
• Maintain harmony: Ensure the overall look is cohesive

When Shopping Separately

• Share photos: Exchange photos of dress options
• Coordinate colors: Agree on a color palette
• Consider the bride’s vision: Make sure both mothers understand the bride’s preferences
• Plan for photos: Think about how the dresses will look together in photos

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting Too Long

• Mother dresses often need to be ordered
• Alterations take time
• Rush fees can be expensive

2. Ignoring Comfort

• Mothers will be wearing these dresses for hours
• Consider the weather and venue
• Think about movement and activities

3. Not Considering the Overall Look

• Mother dresses should complement the wedding party
• Think about how they’ll look in photos
• Consider the wedding venue and theme

4. Forgetting About Accessories

• Plan for jewelry, shoes, and wraps
• Consider weather-appropriate accessories
• Think about the complete look

At Lindsey Lane Bridal

We understand that choosing mother dresses is an important part of your wedding planning. Our experienced consultants are here to help the mothers in your wedding party find the perfect dresses that will make them feel beautiful and confident.

We carry a wide selection of mother dresses in various styles, colors, and sizes to accommodate every mother’s preferences and body type. Our team can help you:

• Choose the perfect color palette
• Find flattering styles for different body types
• Coordinate with bridesmaid dresses
• Handle all the ordering and fitting details

Book a mother dress appointment today and let us help you find the perfect look for the special mothers in your wedding party.

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Ready to help the mothers in your wedding party find their perfect dresses? Contact Lindsey Lane Bridal to schedule your appointment and begin creating beautiful looks for everyone in your wedding celebration.